April 2007

This edition of the Clearinghouse Connector profiles information resources that explore the issue of Lesbian Health.

The social determinants that influence health and wellbeing can be experienced differently by lesbians, particularly in relation to discrimination. This difference requires a separate examination of lesbian health and increased awareness of these issues.

To find out more about these resources follow the hyperlink and choose Full Display. The full display includes a link to the full text where it is available.

To request resources from the Clearinghouse that don't have a full text link, follow the hyperlink and choose "Add to Cart". Then follow the Info Cart link in the top right of the page and choose request and select Go.

Please note due to copyright regulations not all resources listed are available for supply from Women's Health Victoria Clearinghouse.

Information resources

Why should we consider lesbian health separate to women's health? Putting the "Hetero" in front of Sexism: An agenda for lesbian health answers this question by describing the issues faced by lesbians, and how these issues can affect health. The paper also suggests ways health services can be lesbian friendly.

What's the Difference? Health Issues of Major Concern to GLBTI Victorians is a collection of five research papers that focus on physical health, sexual health, mental health, life stage issues, and drug and alcohol issues. A 'must read' commissioned by the Ministerial Advisory Committee on Gay and Lesbian Health.

Private Lives: A Report on the Health and Wellbeing of GLBTI Australians is the result of one of the largest surveys of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and intersex (GLBTI) people ever conducted. This easy to read report provides data, analysis and personal stories and documents aspects of health and wellbeing.

Health professionals' lack of awareness can lead to poor advice and missed health promotion opportunities. Health needs of women who have sex with women aims to increase awareness of lesbian health issues.

It is a myth that lesbians are at less risk of developing cervical cancer because they don't engage in heterosexual sex. Lesbians' experience of cervical screening provides the results of a survey of over 400 Victorian lesbians, their screening history, and barriers to cervical screening.

Lesbians Need Pap Tests Too! This fun brochure, produced by PapScreen Victoria provides information, service details and other useful contacts.

The Women's Health Victoria Clearinghouse

Did you know the Clearinghouse holds a diverse range of journal titles - some of which are not held by any other library in Victoria. A selection of titles is available here.

How our Clearinghouse can help you

Women's Health Victoria's Clearinghouse has a wealth of information on gender in health in various forms.

Our experienced health and information professionals can assist you to access this information.

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